Which of the following could be classified as a fragmented state?
a state in which all borders are about the same distance from the center point of the state
a state that has a foreign enclave within its territory
a state with territory consisting of several small islands and a few large ones
a state that has its north and south borders much farther apart than the east and west borders
a state with territory consisting of several small islands and a few large ones
A fragmented state is typically characterized by having its territory divided into separate and often isolated parts. From the given options, the state that could be classified as a fragmented state is:
- A state with territory consisting of several small islands and a few large ones.
In this case, the state's territory is divided into separate islands, which can cause challenges in terms of governance, communication, and connectivity between the different parts of the state.
To determine which of the following options could be classified as a fragmented state, we need to understand the concept of a fragmented state. A fragmented state is a political entity that consists of separate, non-contiguous parts or territories. It may have isolated regions or enclaves, making it geographically divided.
Let's analyze each of the options to identify which one fits the definition of a fragmented state:
1. A state in which all borders are about the same distance from the center point of the state: This option describes a state with symmetrical borders but does not mention any geographic division or isolated territories. So, it does not fit the definition of a fragmented state.
2. A state that has a foreign enclave within its territory: This option fits the definition of a fragmented state. If a state has a foreign enclave, which means a portion of its territory is surrounded by the territory of another country, it indicates a division within the state.
3. A state with territory consisting of several small islands and a few large ones: This option describes a state with multiple islands, but it does not necessarily mean it is fragmented. It could still form a cohesive political entity if these islands are interconnected or have a centralized government. So, this option does not necessarily fit the definition of a fragmented state.
4. A state that has its north and south borders much farther apart than the east and west borders: This option describes a state with unevenly spaced borders. While this may indicate some geographic disparities, it does not necessarily imply fragmentation unless there are separate, non-contiguous territories within the state.
Therefore, the option that fits the definition of a fragmented state is:
- A state that has a foreign enclave within its territory